Abstract
This qualitative study aimed to analyze the social actors’ perceptions of public responses during the COVID-19 pandemic. We conducted semi-structured interviews with eleven civil society representatives and social movement leaders. We also performed triangulation based on the systematization of opinion papers authored by humanitarian organizations and civil society leaders and published in large-circulation newspapers. Our analysis was inspired by the ethical principles of social justice, solidarity, and citizenship. Two main themes emerged from the thematic analysis: 1) disproportionately affected populations remain invisible to care and protection; 2) there is an intentional project to annihilate “undesirable” populations. Community movements must be incorporated as an essential part of the responses to provide care and protection and mitigate the effects during health emergencies. Care, solidarity, and social participation are central to building health protection responses within the framework of social justice. The responses to transforming the future in the aftermath of the pandemic will occur through the initiatives of civil society and community leaders within the territories.
Key words:
COVID-19; Social justice; Social participation; Public health; Care